Edition 109

B i m o n t h l y · Ye a r 0 4 · N u m b e r 1 0 9 · 2 0 , 0 0 0 c o p i e s · 24 Pa g e s · M ay 1 7 - J u n e 6 , 2 0 1 7

Panthera’s

theplayatimes.co m

Jaguar Jaguar Corridor Corridor Initiative

S P A M E SID

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The ambitious project from the the global wild cat conservation organization sets out to do what no other conservation program has done to date - protect jaguars across 11 countries from Mexico to Argentina. >P. 8-9

COZUMEL CONNECTION An end to Bullfighting

>P. 11

ENTERTAINMENT Sp o r ts B ar s

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Photo: Panthera

· ANIMAL WELFARE

· BEACH LIFE

Fun Animal Trivia

CENOTES Don’t be a bird brain - or more specifically an ostrich brain!

Learn something new with Nash´s Trivia.

>P. 22

Photo: : Melissa Méndez Orantes

Photo: Public Domain Pictures.net

May 17 - June 6

Bet you’ve never heard of these! Get off the beaten track and explore the secrets of these lesser-known cenotes.

>P. 6

2017 Looking for something to do?

Check out our What’s On section online at www.theplayatimes.com for a list of things to do including live music and dancing, yoga, markets and special events.

>P. 20

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May 17 - 6 June 2017

Editorial Successful Conservation Includes Community Involvement DIRECTORY Rebecca Page General Manager & Editor edition@meridianmedia.mx

Ian MacKenzie Copy Editor copyeditor@meridianmedia.mx

Efrén Velázquez Art & Design design@meridianmedia.mx

Ana Martínez Brand Manager Cell: 984 169 1637 marketing@meridianmedia.mx

Erika Serra

BY REBECCA PAGE

I

n this edition, I chose to profile Panthera, the global wild cat conservation organization on our front page. People are always fascinated by the animals that live in this region and want to know more about them, especially jaguars. My article focuses on their Jaguar Corridor Initiative which they hope ¨will connect and protect core jaguar populations from Mexico to Argentina¨ (https://www.panthera.org/initiative/jaguar-corridor-initiative). Some of you may be surprised at how important the Yucatan Peninsula is for the jaguars of Mexico and northern Central America, and I hope you learn a little more about these apex predators that play an important ecological and cultural role in this region.

In addition to the jaguars of Latin America, Panthera has initiatives focused on tigers, leopards, snow leopards, pumas, cheetahs, and lions. And like any successful conservation organization, they look for ways to work with communities, local, state, and federal governments instead of against them. For my article, I interviewed Diana Friedeberg, Mexico Jaguar Program Country Director for Panthera. After explaining how development in the Yucatan Peninsula has impacted the jaguars, she made sure to emphasis that Panthera is not anti-development. They strive to work directly with communities who benefit from development, including infrastructure improvements like highways.

They look to find ways in which conservation and development can work hand in hand. This is an important message to

highlight. Any time I have spoken with scientists and activists in the conservation community, they always stress the importance of including the community in the conversation, whether they be fishers or ranchers, farmers or hunters. When conservation organizations and governments involve the community at the beginning of the conversation and work together to find solutions that benefit not only the environment but the community as well, you have a much greater chance of gaining community support and being successful in accomplishing conservation objectives.

If you are interested in learning more about Panthera, I highly recommend visiting their website www.panthera.org. They have a lot of very interesting information on the Jaguar Corridor Initiative, as well as their other programs that support wild cats across the globe.

Public Relations Cell: 984 119 1586 publicrelations@meridianmedia.mx

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Photo: publicdomainpictures.net

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THE PLAYA TIMES RIVIERA MAYA'S COMMUNITY PAPER Periódico Quincenal.

Número de Certificado de Reserva otorgado por el Instituto Nacional de Derechos de Autor: (PENDIENTE). Número de Certificado de Licitud de Título: (en trámite). Número de Certificado de Licitud de Contenido: (en trámite). Domicilio de la publicación: Calle 2 entre 45 y Carretera Federal, Mza. 088 lote 003-1. Impreso en talleres Grupo Megamedia Prolongación de Montejo número 301, entre 40 y 42, fraccionamiento Campestre, Mérida, Yucatán. Distribuidor: Meridian Media, S.A. de C.V., Calle 2 entre 45 y Carretera Federal, Mza. 088 lote 003-1, Playa del Carmen, Solidaridad, Quintana Roo C.P. 77710.

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BEACH LIFE

May 17 - 6 June 2017

Dear Landscaper: Caring for

bougainvilleas Our resident landscapers advise on getting the most out of this popular plant

BY GREENWAY LANDSCAPING Dear Landscaper What is the best way to prune and treat our bougainvilleas so we have lots of blooms this spring and summer?

Dear Reader iven that our seasons are not extremely different throughout the year in Quintana Roo, pruning any dead branches at their point of origin is always good here. That is exactly what we do for our regular clients and is the reason their shrubs look nice all year round.

First, you must prune your bougainvillea

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The giant’s blossoms are vibrant red, the leaves and thorns are much larger and stronger. (bugambilia in Spanish), to take out dead and damaged wood. Remove diseased or broken

stems at least six inches into healthy wood.

When any blooms fall off you can also trim back six inches or less, depending on the shape you want your plant to take.

Two of the four common bougainvilleas here are the “dwarf ” and “giant”. The dwarf ’s blossoms are either fuschia or purple, with smaller leaves and thorns. You can control the size and shape of this type. It is best for pots and pergolas, and if planted in good ground and soil it can also become a beautiful tree.

Prune the bougainvillea into a tree shape by selecting one strong stem and pruning out all others. Alternatively, select three strong stems and braid them together. Continue the braid as the stems grow. When the central trunk rises to the height you desire, pinch back the tops to encourage flowers. Trim out any competing growth.

The giant’s blossoms are vibrant red, the leaves and thorns are much larger and stronger. It is great for the sides of large buildings and open areas. You can prune and shape the giant the same as you care for the dwarf bougainvillea. If you would like to see just how big they can get in person, the downtown restaurant La Rana Cansada has one growing in their garden. The other types of bougainvillea in this area are “sorpresa” and the “Hungarian/climbing” species. I will explain these in the next issue of Dear Landscaper.

Send your questions to Greenway Landscaping, we are happy to help and advice is always free. greenwaylandscaping@email.com Facebook/GreenwayLandscapingMexico

Prune the bougainvillea into a tree shape by selecting one strong stem and pruning out all others / Photo: Greenway Landscaping

The money is great, but what are the risks? / Photo: pexels

Ask Allan: Show Me the Money?

BY ALLAN LOCKHART, OWNER OF NORTH AMERICAN STANDARDS PROPERTY MANAGEMENT & ACTIVE MEMBER OF THE SEASIDE ROTARY CLUB IN PLAYA DEL CARMEN Hi, Allan. I have been approached by a broker looking to sublet my two-bedroom condo. He is promising me a guaranteed rental income of $2,000 USD a month. It seems too good to be true as my condo normally rents for less. What do you recommend?

Thanks, Rebecca.

Thanks for your question, Rebecca. It is too good to be true. You may receive $2,000 USD a month, but what are the consequences?

First of all, the broker would have carte blanche to rent the condo to whomever he or she wants. There would be pressure to rent the condo on a short-term basis, as often as possible, so the rental income surpasses $2,000 USD a month (so the broker makes a profit). We have heard of instances where up to 14 people have been staying in a two-bedroom condo that normally sleeps four to six people. The more people in the condo, the more rental income for the broker and the more bookings the broker will have, as the aggregate cost per person of the rental would be much lower. Whereas, before they may have paid only $50 USD a night per person, for four people for a weekly rental totaling $1,400 USD, now the broker could rent it for $2,450 USD a week, and for 14 people

There have been instances where up to 14 people have been staying in a two-bedroom condo that normally sleeps four to six people. it’s only $25 USD a night.

Normally, the type of renters who pack into a small two-bedroom are not the cleanest and quietest people. We have heard many complaints from neighbors who live next to sublet units that the renters are very noisy at all hours of the night. They have seen bags and bags of trash coming out of the unit and destroyed furniture. The broker’s main interest, in this case, is making more money than he has to pay out to you, so what happens to your unit is only a minor concern (if they are concerned at all).

I would recommend hiring a reputable property manager to care for and rent your unit. And please, stay away from sublets.

Allan Do you have questions related to property management or vacation rentals?

Send questions or concerns to allan@nasplaya.com

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BEACH LIFE

May 17 - 6 June 2017

You’ve Never Heard of These

Cenotes!

Get off the beaten track and explore the secrets of these lesser-known cenotes

Cenotes were (and still are) considered sacred by the Maya / Photos: Melissa Méndez Orantes

BY MELISSA MÉNDEZ ORANTES

W

ould you like to discover cenotes on the Riviera Maya with a purer environment and no crowds?

I recommend a visit to these ones.

Homún Cenotes To the southeast of Merida, there is a village called Homún which is full of beautiful cenotes. They are isolated, without any human intervention. That means these cenotes don’t have cables, lights, coffee shops or constructions of any kind because they are not located on the

popular tourist routes of the Riviera Maya. Entry is very cheap and you will breathe in peace and calm from every direction. Their waters are also ideal for swimming and snorkeling.

Stalactites: 2.5 cm of growth require about 5,000 years!

There are five other cenotes on your way to Homún that you should

Photo: Caballero Edson

Riviera Maya Supporting Arts for Children

BY CRYSTAL MITCHELL The last weekend in April was a celebration of the arts and children. With the combination of the International Day of Dance and Children’s Day, events took place all over the Riviera Maya. Tulum kicked off the festivities on Friday night with the International Day of Dance 2017 event, created and directed by Caty Dominguez, director of El Hada Azul Dance School in Tulum. Playa del Carmen was represented by a special young talent, siblings Dreyken and Akashana Hinojosa Mitchell, who presented a unique contemporary dance and aerial dance.

Traditional flamenco dance was performed by instructor Maria Diaz from Tulum, along with Caribbean-flavor dances from

not miss: Yaxbakaltún, Bal-Mil, Tza Ujun Kat, Santa María and Santa Rosa.

Balam Aktun Cenote If you love the jungle landscape and animals, you must visit this cenote!

Located in Akumal, you will find this incredible cenote far from civilization. To get there you will need to cross several kilometers of jungle that will make your trip unforgettable, as you will be able to see all kinds of exotic animals. With luck you will see jaguars, tepezcuintles, coatis and spider monkeys. The beauty of this cenote is exceptional,

Chetumal, by Ballet Folklorica Ka’a Sijil, with instructor Noe Angel Tun Tuk from Tulum.

Susana Sarre also presented an aerial dance performance that was dramatic and awe-inspiring. The breakdance group The Shadow Walkers turned up the energy with a breathtaking performance.

On Saturday, Xuuxnë dominated Playa del Carmen with not just one, but two shows for Children’s Day. Starting off at Casa Sofia, the youth music group helped to kick off the kid’s pizza-making workshop. Later, at the Carmen Beer Co., they performed a full show to celebrate children and Mexican roots. The Xuuxnë group, directed by Marcz Reyna from Oaxaca, is spreading its mission to rescue indigenous languages that are dying throughout Mexico. They are healing through music, which is what xuuxnë means.

Saturday night was the second part of Primer Encuentro de Danza del Caribe 2017.

Ramona Faraola, a nine-year-old aerial artist on silks, stole the show with a remarkable performance called “The Warrior”. Other performances included amorali flamenco, by instructor Susana Esquinca, and hip hop.

Le Lotus Rouge closed out the weekend with their very colorful ode to dance on Sunday evening. This unique hot spot for art shows of all types honored the art of dance with a show from Aerofobia on the silks, directed by Alejandra Hernandez, and free belly-dancing lessons by local dance instructor and show artist, Carolina Palavecino.

It is a beautiful thing when children are honored and inspired to develop their talents, especially in the arts. It helps them develop their creativity and emotions in those challenging years, and meet other like-minded and talented people their age. Playa del Carmen and Tulum proved that all weekend long, and I would like to give a big thank you to all of the instructors and people who came out to support those shows.

due to the rock formations that created rare underwater caves.

There is also a reserve of rescued animals close to this cenote that you can visit on a guided tour, however it only accepts small groups of visitors.

Tunkás Cenotes If diving is your passion, you should not miss the opportunity to get to know these cenotes!

Located in the municipality of Tunkás, in the center of Yucatan, there are four incredible cenotes called X’tekdzonot, Mumundzonot, Lukun Chan and Chan X’azul. The depth and transparency of their wa-

ters make diving ideal, even if it is your first time. Its majestic stalactites and stalagmites will leave you impressed as these rock formations need thousands of years to grow. To give you an idea, 2.5 cm of growth require about 5,000 years.

Cenotes were considered sacred by the Maya because, in addition to being considered curative and magical, they are valuable and unique due to the numerous species of marine life that inhabit them. This is why it is important to take care of them, so don’t use sunscreens, repellents or any other abrasive product when you enter the water.

Enjoy your trip!

Xpu- Ha’s status as a hidden gem may not last for long, so discover it while it remains that way / Photo: The Playa Times

Xpu-Ha Beach

BY IAN MACKENZIE “Esh-poo-ha.” That’s the way you pronounce the name of my favorite beach in the Riviera Maya. I have heard it referred to as a hidden gem, and for those of us who frequent it, there is a selfish wish that it would remain that way.

Most people who are visiting from out of town have a similar story as to how they find their way to Xpu-Ha. It is usually due to a recommendation from a friend or fellow tourist, or just by a random search on the internet.

Locals are aware of it, and Sundays are the busiest day as a result. To get there, you must take the colectivo that goes to Tulum, and tell the driver that you are getting off at Xpu-Ha beach. The ride will cost you 35 pesos one way if you leave from the terminal at 20th Avenue and Calle 2.

After 25 minutes of driving, just past Puerto Aventuras, you will arrive at the entrance to the beach. There is a charge for entry. The fee is refundable if you make a min-

imum purchase at La Playa Restaurant and Beach Club, which you will find at the end of the road that leads to the beach. This is a nice place to eat, hang out, and grab a few drinks. They have many tables set up on the beach and inside, and often have a live band on weekends.

Further south you will find KSM Beach Club. This is ideal for those who like watersports. They rent kayaks, boogie boards, and snorkel gear. Guests can use equipment all day, while visitors are charged by the hour.

They also offer kitesurfing lessons, with professional instructors on hand.

I also recommend that you wander away from the crowds at the beach clubs and find your own private area to camp out, as many visitors do. The first time I went, it reminded me of when I saw the film The Beach. If you go really early the water here is so calm and still that it resembles a pool. I’m not surprised that photographers use it a lot for weddings and trash-the-dress shoots. Corona even filmed a series of television commercials there. Don’t forget to take some pictures when you are there. Xpu- Ha’s status as a hidden gem may not last for long, so discover it while it remains that way.

May 17 - 6 June 2017

ART & CULTURE

7

The Art of Pyrotechnics

BY ALEJANDRA CAMPO

When foreigners visit us, the first thing they want to try is our tacos. / Photo: The Playa Times

Taco Culture Mexico’s most famous food is not only delicious, but a foundation of its culture and cuisine.

BY ALEJANDRA CAMPO

W

hen Mexicans have the opportunity to travel to other countries, what we miss the most is our food, in particular tacos and spicy peppers. Similarly, when foreigners visit us, the first thing they want to try is our tacos.

Tacos appeals to all social levels, ages, religion and race. No one can resist a delicious taco! Its unique combination of simple ingredients: a corn tortilla, a stew made of meat or vegetables, accompanied by a sauce made of chile and tomato. You’re ready to go!

Tacos appeal to all social levels, ages, religion and race.

No one can resist a delicious taco!

But how did this delicious combination reach such cultural significance? In past issues, I have spoken about the importance of corn, the foundation of Mexican culture and cuisine since the Mesoamerican era. Beyond its nutritional contribution, corn is a symbolic element of the Mexico itself.

All good parties need to have a very a big ending: an extravaganza of fireworks!

They are not only used for the annual celebrations that commemorate Mexico’s independence. They are used throughout the year and the country, in villages and cities.

Fireworks form an important part of the festivities that honor the patron saint (or the virgin) of the town.

This popular art expresses itself in many ways: with the famous toritos, figures of cardboard in the form of a bull, a legacy of the Spanish; and with structures made of reed, holding the fireworks which spin with large white lights and colors. The figure is carried by a person who runs around the streets while people look on amused and somewhat concerned that the person who is carrying it will burn himself. This is a highly anticipated moment at these festivals.

There is another moment that makes use of this Chinese invention made of gunpowder, which is used both to destroy and entertain. It takes place on the last day of the festivities. Around 10:00, villagers gather in the plaza or main square of the town enjoy the “Castle”, which is nothing more than a tower made of wire and reed. It is approximately five to ten meters high, and it contains rockets and circular structures that

The most common way to eat it is with a tortilla, which has fed kings and peasants since pre-Hispanic times. It addition, it was used both then and now as a spoon.

During the time of the viceroyalty, indians, and mestizos of lower classes ate in the markets or in the outskirts with indigenous women selling their products. They sat crouched on the street, with stew served on top of their tortillas.

During the revolution, the soldaderas (women in the military) made tortillas that fed all the combatants who fought in the battles.

They used tortilla as both food and dish, extremely practical in times of war.

A simple tortilla with beans and a jalapeno chile makes for a great taco, but there is a great variety available: • tacos dorados, with potato or chicken inside a rolled tortilla that is fried in oil • tacos sudados (steamed) with beans, potatoes or fried pork rind and green sauce • tacos made of stews which are generally eaten in the morning or during a great taquiza (a taco party) • the most well-known and acclaimed in the taquerias at night: steak tacos, chorizo or al pastor, served with onion and cilantro.

In the Yucatan area, the most common are tacos made with cochinita (pork) and served with red onion, as well as codzitos, which are tacos without filling that are covered with sauce and cheese.

Are you hungry yet? Go out and enjoy some tacos today!

All good parties need to have a big ending! / Photo: Pexels

light up, ascending each level before reaching the top for a spectacular closing that lasts several minutes. The sky is filled with exploding fireworks of white light and colors that illuminate the night.

The people who create fireworks are skilled and take great care, as their components include, nitrate, sulfur, and charcoal The main producers are the central states of the country, such as the state of Mexico. An example of these are the artisans of San Pedro Tultepec and the town of Almoloya de Juarez, where it is a family business. The people who create fireworks are skilled and take great care, as their components include, nitrate, sulfur, and charcoal, along with other chemicals and minerals.

It is definitely a very explosive art!

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DISCOVER MEXIC0

May 17 - 6 June 2017

PANTHERA’S JAGUAR CORRIDOR INITIATIVE

Photo:Steve Winter/Panthera

The ambitious project sets to do what no other conservation program has done to date - protect jaguars across 11 countries from Mexico to Argentina

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BY REBECCA PAGE

rom the tigers of Asia to the lions of Africa, wild cats are at risk across the globe. In the Americas, jaguars have been eradicated from over 40% of their historic range. As development of historic jaguar ranges continues from the southwest of the United States to South America, jaguars are losing habitat and are being fragmented into smaller areas. This fragmentation compromises their genetic integrity, reduces the availability of wild prey, and places them in danger of human-jaguar conflict.

Panthera, the global wild cat conservation organization, has an ambitious project to help piece together a corridor for jaguars that will span from Mexico to Argentina.

Led by their CEO, Dr. Alan Rabinowitz and Jaguar Program Executive Director and Puma Program Director, Dr. Howard Quigley, Panthera’s leading jaguar scientists are working on the Jaguar Corridor

Initiative. The team will spend four years, traveling two continents and 11 countries on foot, horseback, boat, helicopter, and car from Mexico to Argentina. The goal is to determine the current state of jaguar habitats and populations in the corridor, and which areas are considered most in need of conservation.

I learned of Panthera´s first expedition to Mexico via social media when I saw photos from their exploration of Laguna de Terminos Natural Protected Area and the Terminos-Calakmul Corridor.

Both of these protected areas are located in the state of Campeche, just a few hours from Playa del Carmen. I reached out to Panthera to find out more and was put in touch with Diana Friedeberg, Mexico Jaguar Program Country Director for Panthera who was kind enough to answer a few questions for us: What is the role of the jaguar in the ecosystem, and why should it be protected?

Jaguars are of utmost importance for the ecosystems they inhabit. They are an apex predator; this means that by protecting jaguars, we are also indirectly

Jaguar Facts: • Largest cat in the Western Hemisphere.

• Threatened by illegal hunting, deforestation, and loss of wild prey.

• May be upgraded from near threatened to vulnerable by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature.

(Source: Panthera.org)

protecting many other species that form part of the community in their habitat.

Jaguars play a fundamental ecological role because they moderate numerous food chains. Where jaguars thrive, their presence is an indicator of an ecosystem’s good health, as it shows that populations of their prey are stable, as well as the vegetation that their prey consumes.

Why is establishing a corridor vital to jaguar survival?

Jaguars require large areas of land to survive; males establish large home ranges with little or no overlap and must be able to breed and hunt in this area. As human development encroaches on jaguar habitats, human-jaguar conflict increases and jaguars often disperse in search of new territory. As populations are fragmented or separated—and with no established or protected corridors through which to travel elsewhere— they become isolated, leading to inbreeding and jeopardizing the longterm survival of the species.

Why is including the Yucatan Peninsula as part of the Jaguar Corridor Initiative important?

The Yucatan is immensely important for jaguar conservation as several core populations live here but are in grave danger of becoming isolated.

We must dedicate great conservation efforts to connecting these populations to each other and other jaguars outside the peninsula through biological corridors.

The Yucatan is also very important for jaguar conservation in Mexico because it connects our populations to those in Central America, increasing the diversity of their genetic pool, which enhances their fitness and

May 17 - 6 June 2017

DISCOVER MEXIC0

Diana Friedeberg, Mexico Jaguar Program Country Director for Panthera / Photo: Panthera

Having the local communities involved in the management plans of their land is of utmost importance.

Instead of com-

ing to impose new regulations on people, it’s better to convince them of the need to have management plans and have them be involved in the decision-making and design of these. greatly strengthens their chances of survival. The Yucatan provides the link between the northernmost populations in Mexico (Sonora, Jalisco, Tamaulipas, SLP, etc.) and those in Central and South America; if this link is severed the populations would become severely isolated.

How has development in the region impacted the jaguars?

Development in the peninsula has caused habitat fragmentation, a decrease in the jaguar’s natural prey (by overhunting led by people or loss of habitat) and has forced jaguars and humans to live in closer and closer contact, fueling human-jaguar conflict and livestock depredation together.

Panthera in no way opposes human development - we understand its need and how important it is for local communities to be able to benefit economically from their lands. What we strive for is finding ways in which human development can go hand in hand with conservation; we look for options in which local communities and com-

panies may prosper, while at the same time protecting wildlife. For example, one of our current projects carried out by a collaborator and Ph.D. student at the UJAT, Alberto Gonzalez Gallina, consists of identifying whether jaguars and other wildlife are using different types of underpasses along major highways in the Peninsula. Results, though preliminary, show that animals are in fact using these underpasses to cross busy roads. This suggests that corridors in the peninsula, even those traversing busy roads, are viable and an example of how development (in this case, roads) can work alongside conservation. Humans can have the benefits of highways while the impact on wildlife is mitigated by creating underpasses, so their natural dispersion isn’t completely impeded.

What kind of reception have you had when meeting with local communities and livestock ranchers?

It varies. Many people already have conservation ideas of their own. They

Diana Friedeberg Mexico Jaguar Program Country Director for Panthera Global wild cat conservation organization

feel the need to protect their land and understand that natural resources are finite. These people often just need a little guidance and support from NGOs like us and the government. Other groups, often cattle ranchers, are very set in their ways. They do not see the need to change the traditional way they have done cattle ranching in the past (and the methods their own parents taught them), which is unsustainable. Here it is necessary to first try to change their attitudes and explain the importance of conservation for the future of Mexico. This tends to be a long process - in order for people to be truly convinced, often they need to see the benefits firsthand. What Panthera does is establish model ranches, where we implement predation mitigation strat-

egies, and then other ranchers can come visit these ranches and see how sometimes very simple changes in livestock husbandry techniques can greatly reduce predation. These model cattle ranchers are sort of ambassadors that can tell their neighbors and communities how well these methods work.

Can you discuss the importance of getting the support of the local population when attempting to create conservation management plans?

Having the local communities involved in the management plans of their land is of utmost importance.

Instead of coming to impose new regulations on people, it’s better to

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convince them of the need to have management plans and have them be involved in the decision-making and design of these. We want them to become conservationists, empowered by knowledge, tools, and support. If they truly understand the importance of conservation, not only for the flora and fauna of Mexico, but for themselves and their families as well, the conservation projects (including management plans) will be much more successful.

Could you explain how you might convince a rancher not to kill jaguars that are a threat or perceived threat to his livestock?

First, the leading causes of cattle loss include snake bites, sickness, and death during labor, among other reasons unrelated to jaguars.

Cattle predation by carnivores is not the main cause of mortality in cattle, and even within cattle predation, jaguars are not always the culprits: many times pumas or feral dogs are to blame. Setting this story straight and changing the minds and attitudes of Mexico’s people towards jaguars is the first step.

Predation by jaguars does, in some cases, take place and when this occurs, our team looks to educate and help ranchers implement some of the predation mitigation techniques Panthera has developed over the years. Our cattle conflict expert Dr. Rafael Hoogesteijn and Dr. Amira Hoogesteijn have developed very successful techniques in their 25 years of experience, and we have proven their efficiency in countries like Brazil, Costa Rica, Belize, and Colombia.

If cattle ranchers understand the ecological importance of jaguars and benefit from their presence in some way, then they surely will be less likely to hunt the species. Ecotourism is an example of how this can be done. Due to a highly successful jaguar conservation program and the banning of jaguar hunting with hounds, we’ve established an ecotourism operation in the Brazilian Pantanal.

Here, tourists pay a great amount to get the opportunity to see jaguars in their natural habitat, and thousands of other animals and plants that thrive in the Pantanal wetland, thanks to the survival of the jaguar. The local community benefits from this ecotourism operation, as they can gain employment as tour guides, establish local businesses and more.

If you are interested in learning more about Panthera, their Jaguar Corridor Initiative, or their other wild cat conservation projects, please visit www.panthera.org.mx.

You can also follow them on Facebook/pantheramexico, Instagram/ pantheramexico, and Twitter/ pantheramexico. Please consider a donation to support their programs - every bit helps!

Diana reminds all of us to be conscious! Educate yourself and others on the importance of jaguar conservation and promote a general ‘green culture’.

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DISCOVER MEXIC0

May 17 - 6 June 2017

Sharks & Rays Cool Facts:

The Hammerhead

Why has the odd shape of the hammerhead´s head been so successful over the last 20 to 25 million years?

BY FLORENCIA CERUTTI

S

harks and rays form an amazing group of animals called elasmobranchs. Although there are lots of things yet to be discovered about this group, some particular features have drawn scientists’ attention, like the shape of the hammerhead shark. This shark owes its name to

the weird shape of its head which has persisted for over the past 20-25 million years! Its presence in many hammerhead shark species with different head shapes tell of its evolutionary success.

There are a few hypotheses as to why this shape has been so successful and what advantages it gives to the shark. Some scientists think that this shape could be useful to trap its favor-

Did you know…. sharks and rays have hundreds of pores on their heads which are the open end of electrically sensitive organs known as ampullae of Lorenzini?

ite prey, stingrays, by pinning them to the seafloor. Others think that the broader shape helps to find its prey because sharks and rays have hundreds of pores on their heads which are the open end of electrically sensitive organs known as ampullae of Lorenzini. Each ampulla, or vesicle, is filled with conductive gel and neurons project into the gel. The hammerhead shark has a much wider area on its head to have more of these sensory organs to better track odors and to detect the electric currents generated by potential prey more accurately. The shark’s eye placement, on each end of its very wide head, enhances binocular vision and allows it to scan more area more quickly than other sharks can.

Scientists have found that hammerhead sharks could sense the electric

field 50% farther away than could other sharks of the same size. It has also been suggested that it increases maneuvering capabilities. When a hammerhead shark changes direction, it can tilt its big winglike head which is far forward of its center of gravity, and exert a huge turning force on the body. So, this shark can turn more quickly and make sharp turns more often than other species of sharks.

More information is needed to fully understand how this shape evolved and how it has persisted through time, although these are only some examples of the questions surrounding the hammerhead sharks. But whatever the reasons are for these particular body shapes, what it is for sure is how majestic these animals are when you are lucky enough to find them swimming around.

There are a few hypotheses as to why this shape has been so successful and what advantages it gives to the shark / Photo: Wikimedia Commons/Barry Peters

Female sea turtles encounter many obstacles when they reach our beaches / Photo: Wikimedia Commons

Nesting season is on!

Please do not disturb!

BY FLORENCIA CERUTTI In nature, sea turtles face a lot of threats, particularly as hatchlings.

But once they are adults, natural threats are reduced. These threats, however, are not the reasons sea turtle populations have declined almost to extinction. To understand what really threatens sea turtles, we must look at the actions of humans.

Harvest for consumption, the illegal shell trade, getting caught in fisheries (e.g. tuna), and plastic pollution are well-known threats.

However, there are other more subtle, yet highly negative threats faced by nesting turtles and hatchlings di-

rectly related to coastal development and beach tourism.

Nowadays, nesting turtles compete with tourists, residents, and business for the use of the beaches.

Nesting turtles depend on dark, quiet beaches to reproduce and lights from coastal developments discourage females from nesting. After multiple attempts to find a suitable spot, females will resort to non-suitable nesting spots which reduces their hatchlings’ survival rate. Additionally, hatchlings instinctively move towards the brightest direction, which is normally moonlight reflecting off the ocean, so lights coming from coastal buildings cause hatchlings to

become disoriented, pushing them towards land.

Beach activities, beach furniture, boats, and even bungalows negatively impact nesting turtles, incubating eggs, and hatchlings. For example, there is increasing documentation of nesting females becoming trapped in beach furniture. Driving on the beach during the day can cause sand compaction above nests resulting in lower nest success.

Turtle nesting season is now in the Riviera Maya from early May to late October. It is a beautiful sight to see a large turtle coming out of the sea to nest and witnessing baby turtles make their way to the ocean can be a life changing experience. However, the massive coastal developments directly on the beach, the lights, furniture, and masses of people all have an impact on the turtles nesting.

Remember!

• Reduce artificial light at night and furniture left on the beach.

• Respect the mothers, allow them to travel up the beach.

No flash photography and no touching!

• Leave pets at home so they do not disturb or injure turtles or their nests.

• Be careful while walking to avoid stepping on hatchlings.

• Hatchlings must walk themselves, and do not need help except for a clear path to the ocean.

So, let’s: • Reduce artificial light at night and furniture left on the beach.

• Respect the mothers, allow them to travel up the beach. No flash photography and no touching!

• Leave pets at home so they do

not disturb or injure turtles or their nests.

• Be careful while walking to avoid stepping on hatchlings.

• Hatchlings must walk themselves, and do not need help except for a clear path to the ocean.

No Bull! Festival Marks End to Bullfighting Tradition

BY VANESSA NINI From April 29 to the May 5 this year, the people of Cozumel celebrated the annual Festival of El Cedral and the Festival of the Holy Cross. The event is held in the small town of El Cedral, in the south of the island. It actually includes two celebrations - one, a sacred commemoration of the Holy Cross and the other, a secular celebration. The festival was initiated over 166 years ago by Casimiro Cárdenas. During the Caste War, attackers killed many villagers, but Cárdenas survived whilst clutching a small wooden cross. Legend has it that Cárdenas vowed to start an annual festival wherever he settled, to honor the religious power of this symbol.

Historically, the revelers enjoyed traditional feasts, rodeos, bullfights, music, and competitions, not to mention bottles of cold Mexican beer. Maya Cozumeleños dressed in traditional wear and perform folk dances.

This year, however, something will change in the traditional program of the festival. Members of the state decided to cancel the famous corridas (bullfighting) during the festival. It was at the request of the new Mayor of Cozumel Perla Tun, who declared “It is time to stop this cruel practice.”

In the village of El Cedral, the famous Plaza de Toros (bull arena) has disappeared, and what a surprise to see the Plaza de Toros reassembled behind the Chedraui supermarket in San Miguel as a concert hall!

It is a big step for animal rights in a tourist destination like Cozumel, where people are used to animals being used for entertainment.

Photos: Vanessa Nini

Photo: Vanessa Nini

It is encouraging to see that traditions can always be changed.

Reaction of Festival El Cedral attendees Miguel: ¨I´m really proud of this decision. I have never liked this kind of barbaric sport. Most of the people I know are against the bullfights. We needed a big music hall in the center of Cozumel!”

Jesus: ¨I grew up with bull fights. It is a nice tradition. I think that the bulls are probably more mistreated in the slaughterhouse than in the bullfights.”

For the moment we don’t know yet if it will be banished forever, so let’s support this new concert hall in Cozumel!

Maya Festival 2017 The festival celebrated the Maya origins of the island, Za^Z] h_ g^qm r^Zk l .))&r^Zk Zggbo^klZkr h_ ma^ ZkkboZe of Spanish explorers at Cozumel

BY VANESSA NINI

I

n 1518, the Spanish explorer Juan de Grijalva arrived on the coast of Cozumel on Holy Cross Day (May 3rd), and named it “Isla de la Santa Cruz”.

Next year will be the 500-year anniversary of the occasion, but the government of Cozumel decided to organize a pre-festival this year for the inhabitants of the island to reconnect with their Maya roots and share more of their history with visitors.

The Maya Festival 2017 - Meeting of Two Cultures took place from April 28 to May 6, with a packed program including a local market on the main Benito Juarez square, featuring Maya handmade clothing, local products and art.

An incredible photographic exhibition was held in Plaza del Sol, entitled “The Last Witnesses: The Last Rebellion of the Maya in Yucatan” by the Canadian Serge Barbeau. On exhibit were amazing pictures of elderly Mayas, each portrait including the name, age and personal story of those photographed. This exhibition was also the first one in the new art gallery “Galeria del Encuentro” inaugurated

by Mayor Perla Tun, during the Maya festival.

The festival also hosted a beautiful Maya ceremonial concert with prehispanic instruments like the conch shell, Maya flutes, maracas, ankle bells and tunkul drums.

The most incredible experience for me was watching the traditional ball game juego de pelota live on the shorefront. This game has been practiced for over 3000 years in Mesoamerica. It was amazing to see this ancestral

Karate also relieves stress and anxiety, while making the body stronger / Photo: Raquel Garza

INAM Physical Conditioning and Personal Defense

BY RAQUEL GARZA

practice played by real professionals from El Pueblo del Maiz, traditionally dressed and painted like their Maya ancestors. http://www.islacozumel.gob.mx/gobierno/ http://sergebarbeau.com/ Facebook/@pueblodelmaiz/

In life, we exercise with daily activities, such as walking or some specific exercises, like cycling or gym workouts. Often we only pay attention to the physical body, leaving aside the importance of all the elements that make up the body.

I went to visit Coach/Sensei Blanca Torres who is a Black Belt 2nd Dan in Karate. Blanca explained that this activity is not only an excellent physical exercise, but it also mentally and emotionally prepares the student, increasing strength, self-esteem, tranquility, balance and discipline. The students are taught not to be violent, but to react in a safe way when facing a situation that takes them to the limit.

“Students will learn to free themselves of strangulation, blocking attacks, forms of submission, kicking, pressure points and blows,”

she told me. “But above all, they will have fun doing something that they never believed capable of achieving.”

The students are taught not to be violent, but to react in a safe way when facing a situation that takes them to the limit.

Karate also relieves stress and anxiety, while making the body stronger. You feel good and end up leading a healthy and calm life.And this activity can be practiced by people of any age.

The INAM Club is located at Avenue 30 between Calle 7 Sur and Hidalgo. The schedule is Tuesday and Wednesday from 9 p.m. to 10 p.m. and Thursday from 8 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Phone: 9871127260 You can also find them on Facebook/InamCozumel

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The music events were part of the pre-celebration of the 500-year anniversary of the arrival of the Spanish to Cozumel / Photo: Raquel Garza

International Music in Plaza

La Espanola A pre-celebration of the 500-year anniversary of the arrival of Spanish explorers in Cozumel.

BY RAQUEL GARZA

O

n Tuesday, May 2, the Foundation of Parks and Museums of Cozumel (FPMC) held a concert in the former bullring “La Española.” The events were part of the Festival of El Cedral and the pre-celebration of the 500-year anniversary of the arrival of Spanish explorers in Cozumel.

The local government of Cozumel, in coordination with the state government, hosted an artistic lineup for all tastes. On the evening of May 2, two great musical acts born in the 90s, made their appearance.

First to the stage was Moenia, the electro pop band, playing their songs “Dejame Entrar”, “Jamas”, “Juegos de Amor” and the most chanted by all the attendees: “Manto Estelar.”

Next up was the band Fobia, with Leonardo de Lozanne leading at the foot of the stage while the band played songs from their last album “Destruye Hogares.” They also performed classics such as “Hipnotìzame,” “Yo No Soy Buen Perdedor,” “Dos Corazones Laten Dentro de Mi”, “Descontrol”, “Vivo” and “Hoy Tengo Miedo.”

They ended with the most requested of the night, “El Microbito”, which had been requested from the beginning.

This is a great tradition in force, a celebration of all of Cozumel, a feast that we are proud of and that we must keep for the rest of our lives.

Eligio Càrdenas Descendant of Casimiro Càrdenas

The first event of the musical program included the participation of international groups Vàskez, La Banda que Manda, and La Ejecutiva, from Mazatlan, Sinaloa, whose performances took place at the Plaza de Toros.

The entertainment continued on May 3 with Alicia Villarreal, a great exponent of Mexican regional music. The festivities culminated on the Cozumelian stage where international singer Ana Torroja performed on May 6.

Eligio Càrdenas, a descendant of Casimiro Càrdenas, the founder of the El Cedral festival in 1848, had this to say: “This is a great tradition in force, a celebration of all of Cozumel, a feast that we are proud of and that we must keep for the rest of our lives.”

May 17 - 6 June 2017

CANCUN

15

Local Creators: Chikizz Ramone

BY ANDRÉS MENDOZA DEL VALLE III

Minerva´s heartwarming prints are available at cacadeoruga.com / Photos: Andrés Mendoza Del Valle III

Local Creators:

Caca de Oruga Meet Minerva Gónzales Martínez, a Mexican illustrator, based in Playa

BY ANDRÉS MENDOZA DEL VALLE III

C

aca de Oruga is the illustration project of Minerva GM (Minerva Gónzales Martínez), a graphic designer born in Toluca, Mexico who has lived in Playa since 2015. It all began in 2008 as a personal project, after she graduated from college. She received a communications degree, but her true passion since childhood has been drawing. After taking professional lessons, she started a Tumblr account under the name of Caca de Oruga. It is an expression she uses with no particular meaning, and serves as an outlet for her creations.

Eventually, she learned digital illustration as well, making it easier for her to move into the online creator’s network. Soon her delicate and naïve universe of pastel shades crossed borders. Almost a decade from its creation it has become a reference in Mexican illustration. Her fairly new Instagram account @cacadeoruga, where I first saw her art before I knew who she washas almost 20,000 followers.

She has worked for internationally renowned brands such as American Greetings and has exhibited in events all over the continent. On the occasion of visiting Chikizz Ramone, she stopped by to finally meet in person and talk about this gem called Caca de Oruga.

Stories from the city, stories from the sea Minerva spent six years working as an editorial designer for several publications in Mexico. It was a challenge to alternate personal projects with professional ones, especially when she began coming to Playa and fell in love with it.

Finally, in 2015 she decided to take the risk and started her own design studio in Playa with J. de la Fuente, called Bädi. Living by the sea has

With more than 15 years as a local, Chikizz Ramone is currently one of the most visible artists in the southeast. Chikizz took his pseudonym from the legendary punk band The Ramones. You can note the influence of the 70s punk scene in his unique, often monochromatic style. It’s a mix of DIY attitude, 20th-century propaganda elements, collage and modern professional design. Chikizz’s work is unmistakable; you have probably seen it on some Playa street (his stickers are everywhere), in the famous bar La Negrita in Merida, or as part of the 2016 Riviera Maya Film Festival advertising.

Estudio Fresco, wallpapers and stolen car plates We first met on stage about seven years ago in Cozumel, when he was playing with his punk rock band Cerebros Destruidos. We recently met in Estudio Fresco to talk about the past, art, life in Playa and upcoming adventures.

In 2012, he decided to start using the C. Ramone nickname as his official trademark, and co-founded (with Mauricio Franco) Estudio Fresco. Creating tailor-made branding in a Caribbean context, this studio has created identities for restaurants, tattoo shops, cross-fit boots and is responsible for the now expired (and truly missed) whale shark car plates. They were so cool that they became targets for theft, to be sold online to avid collectors, when they first released in 2014. He was already experimenting with wallpaper collage and serigraphy repetition techniques that nobody else was using at the time. These peculiarities positioned him in a privileged spot by 2016, his breakthrough year. He had a serious portfolio, including several mural installations, a t-shirt series, and a special collaboration with the Playa swimwear brand AlasOlas. This led him to his long-awaited first solo show, where he presented his first picture-format works.

Mora Mora (Cancún) is now hosting a

2012-16 retrospective on him and, as you read this, he’s traveling to Mexico City for a presentation. Not bad for a punk kid.

If you need a new image for your company or amazing wallpaper for your apartment, Chikizz is your man! ramone.com.mx / estudiofresco.com

Minerva’s minimalistic colorful patterns and landscapes are a celebration of women, childhood and life. influenced her work in a very positive way, and her delayed online shop was successfully launched last year. Minerva’s minimalistic colorful patterns and landscapes are a celebration of women, childhood and life.

Her heartwarming prints are available at cacadeoruga.com at reasonable prices, so make sure you buy one for yourself or for someone you love.

Chikizz´s work is a mix of DIY attitude, 20th-century propaganda elements, collage and modern professional design / Photo: Andrés Mendoza Del Valle III

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PUERTO VALLARTA

May 17 - 6 June 2017

El Chepe: Part 1 Frank visits northern Mexico and travels by train on this famous route between Chihuahua and Sinaloa

in 1900 and the project was not finished until 1961. This was because of the immense costs that came with the rugged character of the Copper Canyon. In all its glory now, it consists of 37 bridges, 86 tunnels and elevates from sea level to 2,400 meters at Divisadero.

It consists of 37 bridges, 86 tunnels and elevates from sea level to 2,400 meters

We took a bus straight to the beautiful town of El Fuerte / Photo: Frank van der Burgh

BY FRANK VAN DER BURGH

T

his time I am not taking you to a restaurant, a bar or a viewpoint in the city, but a short flight (or long bus ride) away to the Mexican states of Sinaloa and Chihuahua. Here we can find the two ends of the famous Ferrocarril Chihuahua al Pacifico railway, more commonly known as the “El Chepe”.

Haven’t heard of it? Perhaps the name Copper Canyon rings a bell, the

mountain range which is part of the Sierra Madre. Also unknown? Don’t worry, unfortunately this part of Mexico is visited a lot less than the current hotspots, mostly because of the dangerous reputation north Mexico has in general. Of course, we should not close our eyes to the problems there, but I can say that with a little bit of preparation, you will see a stunning part of Mexico which surpasses most of the more famous spots.

Back to the railway. It was conceived in 1880, construction began

Having flown into Los Mochis, we took a bus straight to the beautiful town of El Fuerte. The main reason for this was that it is a Pueblo Magico and it helps that the train passes there at 8:15 a.m. instead of 6:00 a.m. in Los Mochis. We set the alarm early and were almost fighting with the staff because our promised breakfast was not ready at 7 a.m. nor was the requested taxi. The situation was quickly resolved when they explained that in Los Mochis it’s one hour earlier than in Puerto Vallarta. As we were extra early, we made it to the train station and waited anxiously for its arrival. Even before the eye can see it, you can hear it, meaning only one thing: the adventure is starting.

Join me next edition to hear about the wonders of the trip, the beautiful town of Creel and the incredible nature on the way.

Salud Super Food The creative dishes were filled with ingredients that would make even the biggest BBQ fan enthusiastic / Photo: Frank van der Burgh

BY FRANK VAN DER BURGH Several weeks ago, I wrote about the perfect gift that I received from my brother, intended for someone who is living abroad. Our third date takes us to TripAdvisor’s highest rated restaurant in Puerto Vallarta - Salud Super Food. Let’s see if they lived up to their reputation.

After sitting down in the coffee shop-like interior, I could instantly see what makes this place unique.

V or VG signs indicate dishes as vegetarian or vegan-friendly. These creative dishes were filled with ingredients that would make even the biggest BBQ fan enthusiastic.

We arrived late in the morning and opted for breakfast, so I selected the Salud breakfast toast. It did not disappoint. Whoever came up with the ge-

nius idea of adding homemade pesto to a sunny-side-up egg should be applauded. The great toast, perfect egg, cheese, tomato and green salad that took up half the plate would each make a great dish by themselves.

On return visits I have tried the grilled chicken sandwich and the ginger-infused oriental chicken with quinoa. Both of them are also great choices, with well-sized portions and a mix of healthy ingredients.

From the moment the food arrived until we (almost) licked our plates clean, I concluded that Salud is rightfully at the top of the food chain in Puerto Vallarta.

Are you interested in visiting? Remember that they only serve breakfast and lunch and close at 5 p.m. My personal recommendation is the Salud breakfast toast.

TPT FOODIES

May 17 - 6 June 2017

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The Other Gift from the Gods Rice is an important ingredient in the everyday diet of Mexicans

BY CATHERINE PAWELEK

A

lthough corn was considered a gift from the gods, rice comes a close second. It has been an integral part of the Mexican diet for over 500 years, providing nutrition and essential caloric intake. But is also labor-intensive to grow. Millions of years ago, plants of the oryza (rice) family appeared as a wild grass, and its cultivation began in China almost 5,000 years ago. The warm, moist climate created an optimal growth environment, similar to Mexico’s Veracruz region, where the grain was introduced by the Spaniards in the 1500s.

Did you know….

Mexico imports

60%

of its rice, mostly from the USA? European food elements introduced by the Spanish colonial settlers fused with those of the New World to create modern

Mexican cuisine, and while expensive saffron was replaced by tomatoes, the basics remained the same. With Veracruz’s proximity to the water, dishes like arroz a la tumbada combine rice with seafood. While in Michoacan, the Spaniards’ introduction of pork created the regional dish of morisqueta con chorizo.

As we enter Mexico’s rainy season, we realize how the country’s weather patterns assist the growth of rice, often allowing for two crops annually. Despite what would seem like an abundance of this crop, Mexico still imports 60% of its rice, mostly from the USA. The imported “rough” rice is milled and then packaged here for consumption. You may have eaten rice that was added to a soup or stew for a savory caldo, or in the form of arroz con leche. It is also served as a simple side dish, or in the form of the refreshing beverage called horchata.

While Asia’s rice is commonly grown in flooded fields known as paddies, Mexico’s method of irrigation requires high efforts in pest and weed control. There is also a different approach to soil fertilization.

Whether you use a short-grain or longgrain rice, converted or instant, cooking temperature and times can vary.

So let trial and error be your guide, and remember that it is always easier to add a little more liquid than take it away.

Rice was introduced to Mexico by the Spaniards in the 1500s. / Photo: Shutterstock

Horchata goes great with morisqueta con chorizoi / Photo: shutterstock

Rice and

Horchata

Have you often wondered what is the name of that milky white beverage that is ladled from a large glass container? It’s called horchata, and it is one of the most common drinks in Mexico. It may appear to have a long preparation time, but once you get started the time passes quickly. Before you know it, you’ll have your very own refreshing and satisfying homemade agua.

Ingredients 1 cup uncooked rice 2 liters water ɝ teaspoon cinnamon ½ lime, juiced 1 cup sugar In a mesh strainer, rinse the white rice under running water, then place it in a bowl and cover with water. Let it stand for two to three hours, then drain the rice.

Place the drained rice in a large saucepan with the two liters of water, bring to the boil and cook until the rice is tender. Allow

to cool, then pour the rice water through a mesh strainer into a pitcher, pressing to extract as much liquid as possible.

Add the cinnamon, lime juice, and sugar to the liquid, stirring to dissolve everything.

Serve very cold.

Horchata would go great with the traditional Michoacan dish, “ Morisqueta con Chorizo Ingredients (serves 4) 2 tablespoons vegetable oil ¼ cup chopped yellow onion 340g chorizo, removed from its casing and crumbled 115g roma tomatoes, peeled and chopped 3 ½ cups cooked white rice Salt to taste In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil and sauté the onion until it becomes translucent. Add the chorizo and continue to cook, stirring for five minutes. Add the tomatoes and cook until they render their juice. Now add the rice, stirring to combine, and cook until heated through. Add salt to taste. Serve immediately. Make extra, refrigerate and heat on a day you don’t want to cook from scratch but want a good home-cooked meal.

18 HEALTH

May 17 - 6 June 2017

Global Wellness Day will be celebrated on Saturday, June 10, 2017 / Photo: Global Wellness Day

G

lobal Wellness Day will be celebrated on Saturday, June 10, 2017 and will mark the sixth annual GWD celebration. It was founded by Turkish cancer survivor Belgin Aksoy Berkin, whose mantra is “One Day Can Change Your Whole Life”. She has inspired an international network of over 85 Global Wellness Day Ambassadors, 3 Advisors and 21 Key Supports to organize complimentary wellness events in over 4,000 locations in 100 countries this year. From the beginning, GWD has advocated that wellness is not a luxury, but the inherent right of every individual. GWD events ensure access to all, are completely free and open to the public.

Say yes to wellness and be part of this international event, now celebrated in over 100 countries Cities, tourism boards and hotels in 100 countries will celebrate with free wellness activities. Global Wellness Day’s simple but effective pink paddles announce “I SAY YES TO WELLNESS” and have become synonymous with the day.

GWD’s manifesto is simple and clear: 1. Walk for an hour.

2. Drink more water.

3. Don’t use plastic bottles.

4. Eat healthy food.

5. Do a good deed.

6. Have a family dinner with your loved ones.

7. Sleep at 10:00 pm.

Photo: Doruk Seymen

BY SARA JONES

O n e d ay c a n change your whole life Belgin Aksoy Berkin Global Wellness Day founder

Major Chakras or Energy Centers

BY SANACIÓN PRÁNICA Major chakras or energy centers are actually major acupuncture points. Chakras are very important parts of the energy body.

The energy body interpenetrates and goes beyond the physical body. It is the medium used to vitalize or energize the physical body. It is the pattern for the physical body and has an aura called the etheric aura. The major chakras not only control and energize the vital organs of the body, but also control and affect a person’s psychological and spiritual conditions.

Just as the visible physical body has vital and minor organs, the energy body has major, minor and mini chakras.

Each major chakra has a subchakra or several subchakras. This subchakra is called a minor chakra. Each subchakra may have a sub-subchakra, called a mini chakra.

Chakras have several important functions: 1. They absorb, digest, and distribute prana to the different parts of the body.

2. The chakras control, energize and are responsible for the proper functioning of the whole physical body and its different parts and organs. The endocrine glands are controlled and energized by some of the major chakras. The endo-

3.

crine glands can be stimulated or inhibited by controlling or manipulating the major chakras. A lot of ailments are caused partially by the malfunctioning of the chakras.

Some chakras are sites or centers of psychic faculties, Activation of certain chakras may result in the development of certain psychic faculties.

There is some degree of controversy as to whether there are seven chakras or more.

Some ancient Indian books mentioned seven chakras. Some modern authors also have written about seven chakras. Master Choa Kok Sui has taught that there are 11 major chakras. Which is correct? Actually, both are correct, because, in these ancient books, they have never mentioned that there are only seven chakras. The key word is only. The problem is that the students or readers assume that there are only seven chakras. This in an assumption without any basis.

Source: Master Choa Kok Sui, c 2009, The Chakras and their Functions, Metro Manila, Philippines, The Institute for Inner Studies Publishing Foundation.

The Center for Pranic Healing is located in Playacar Fase II, Paseo Tulum, Edificio Bugambilias. For more information visit Facebook/Sanación Pránica Quintana Roo

In addition, a special focus for this year’s celebrations will be to encourage kindness, gratitude, mindfulness and happiness! GWD will be encouraging attendees to aim for a technology detox on that day, setting aside at least two hours free of electronics.

Complimentary wellness activities will be organized across the globe helping millions realize the difference that one day can make to inspire healthy change in the world. Activities include yoga, Pilates, dance, ballet, meditation, workshops on nutrition, healthy eating and happiness, therapies such as breathing, laughter, art,

mindfulness and beauty classes.

Look for the hashtag #GlobalWellnessDay to follow activities around the world on June 10.

How can you help?

Do you have a wellness-related activity that you can offer to the community on June 10? As a GWD Key Supporter, I will be arranging events for the local community here in Playa del Carmen and could use your help!

Get in touch with me at sara@ spawellnessmexico.com Sara Jones Spa, Wellness & Lifestyle Expert, Spa Consultant and Founder of Spa & Wellness MexiCaribe magazine www.spawellnessmexico.com

Yin Yoga

BY SARA JONES Yin yoga is a style of yoga that is different from anything else out there. It’s relaxing, energizing, and extremely beneficial, and is a great complement to other forms of yoga that you may already practice. It allows you to stretch and recharge, bring more meditation into your practice, work on flexibility, strengthen connective tissues and deepen breathing. All of these are important for a well-rounded yoga practice and overall well-being.

Getting started with a practice of yin yoga is simple and very worthwhile. All you need is a mat, some cushions and comfortable clothing. Here are a few poses you can practice at home to get started: Butterfly Sit with your spine long, with weight evenly distributed through both sit bones. Bring the soles of your feet together in front of you and allow the knees to relax out to the sides. If your hips are tight, move the feet further forward. Fold forward from the hips until you feel a stretch through the inner thighs, hips and back. Rest on your hands or on a cushion. Use cushions under each knee, if needed. As you release, use both hands to draw the knees together. Hold for 3-6 minutes.

Pigeon Pose (or Sleeping Swan in yin yoga) Begin in the Table Top Pose (on all fours, spine long). Lift your right knee, moving it forward towards your head. Set your right shin and knee down in front of your right hip. Only if you are able, bring your shin parallel to the

Yin yoga is a style of yoga that is different from anything else out there / Photo: Pexels

front of your mat, otherwise the shin will sit diagonally. Stretch your left leg out to the back and fold forward over the front leg. Support the upper body with your elbows, forearms or lower your upper body completely to the floor.

Relax for 3-6 minutes, then switch sides.

Cow Face Pose From a seated posture, cross your right knee over the left, stacking one knee on top of the other. Sit down between your ankles with both sit bones on the mat; use a cushion under the hips if needed. Reach your right arm out to the side, thumb down, then rotate the arm inward and reach behind your back and up towards your neck. Reach your left arm up, bend your elbow and reach behind your neck to grasp your fingers. Use a strap or towel if the fingers do not meet behind the shoulder blades. Hold for 3-6 minutes, then switch sides.

Sara Jones Spa, Wellness & Lifestyle Expert, Spa Consultant and Founder of Spa & Wellness MexiCaribe magazine www.spawellnessmexico.com

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ENTERTAINMENT

May 17 - 6 June 2017 your voice provides to you and your baby. Centro Bek, Don Nassim #8, SM 63 Villas Morelos, Puerto Morelos. Facebook/La Voz de Mamá: Taller de Canto Prenatal FAMILY HEALTH WITH ESSENTIAL OILS WORKSHOP, Wednesday, May 31 10:30 a.m. to 12:30

p.m. Includes: A brief introduction to essential oils, the safe way to use them in infants and children, dilute or not dilute, the most recommended oils for babies, what oil or oils you can use for the most common concerns and situations, and how you can integrate essential oils into daily life and turn them into a lifestyle.

Free. Centro Bek, Don Nassim #8, SM 63 Villas Morelos, Puerto Morelos. Facebook/Taller: Salud Familiar con Aceites Esenciales

Cozumel EXPERIENCE THE DRUM WORKSHOP, May 27 10:00

MAY 17 - JUN 06

2017

a.m.-28 2:00 p.m. Come and take this unique experience through connecting yourself with the Drum. You only need to feel the call of the Drum, that feeling that when you hear it, you feel that something is speaking to you, that something moves you. Contribution is $ 900mxn for the two days or for one day $ 500. Facebook/Taller Vivencial de Tambor PRE-CERTIFICATE LIFE COACH, May 27, 9:00 a.m.

- May 28, 4:00 p.m. Know and apply techniques in excellence, harmony, wealth, mental, emotional, spiritual, physicalsexual, and financial areas.

Facebook/PreCertifícate LIFE COACH Cozumel MAYO 27-28

PUEBLITO MAYAKOBA FARMERS MARKET, Sunday, May 21 from 11:00 a.m.

to 3:00 p.m. A wide variety of gourmet products and handcraft from the community plus activities for kids. Free entry to the public. Federal Highway Chetumal-Puerto Juarez km. 298, 984 873 4900. Facebook/El Pueblito at Mayakoba

SPECIAL EVENT Playa del Carmen CHICAGO THE MUSICAL , May 19-21 at 7:30 p.m. Ex-

playarte productions presents: Chicago, a classic of musical theater in Playa del Carmen, with more than 30 artists on stage and orchestra completely live. Teatro de La Ciudad, Circuito Chinchorro between avenues 115 y 120. Facebook/Chicago El Musical (Explayarte Producciones) OLD SCHOOL PARTY: TRIBUTE TO THE POLICE & THE ROLLING STONES, Friday, May 19 from 8:00 p.m. to

4:00 a.m. (Saturday, May 20). Diablito Cha Cha Cha - RADIO ZERO (Tribute to The Police & The Rolling Stones) -Dj Preston Facebook/Old School Party: Tributo a The Police

& The Rolling Stones

WOMEN’S FONDO RIVIERA MAYA +100, Saturday,

May 20 from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. $ 950. $ 1,150mxn cash only. Registration in Ciclopolis Cancun and Playa del Carmen, Dreams Tulum. Great prizes.

Facebook/Fondo Riviera Maya Femenil + 100

FROM WOMEN AND MEN TO GODS: THE AWAKEN-

ING OF YOUR INNER GOD, Saturday, May 20 from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Discover secrets of the “Art of love” new working your femininity and masculinity from your “Divine Essence to the outside” to fully live as the Goddess and the God you are shapes. $1200mxn individual and $1999mxn couples. Facebook/De Mujeres y Hombres a Dioses, el despertar de tu dioSa interior

CRYSTAL THERAPY AND HEALING COURSE, Saturday, May 20 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Crystal therapy is an advanced healing art that has the ability to influence the spiritual, physical, mental and emotional aspect of our being. $1300 mxn. For more information Facebook/Curso de Cristaloterapia y Sanación en Playa del Carmen LEGO BATMAN, Sunday May 21 from 10:00 a.m. to

2:30 p.m. “Lego Batman, a different hero” arrives from Gotham City to Playa del Carmen, to entertain young and old, a musical that will make you have a good time. Facebook/Obra Lego Batman en Playa del Carmen

FIDDLER ON THE ROOF, May 25-May 27. Full of

drama and comedy with 25 youngsters on stage.

Thursday 7:30 p.m. and Saturday, 2:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. 984 183 32 44. Presale tickets$ 170mxn and day of the event $200mxn. Facebook/Violinista en el Tejado

1st NATIONAL FORUM OF TROPICAL ARBORICULTURE, May 25 to 27, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The Trop-

ical Arboriculture Forum will be held for the first time in the paradisiacal city. There will be expert speakers in the field of national and international stature. Facebook/1er Foro Nacional de Arboricultura Tropical

SACRED MAYA CROSSING 2017, Friday, May 26 from

7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. The Sacred Maya Crossing is a ritual in which the ancient Maya knowledge of navigation, commercial sea routes and the veneration of Ixchel, Mayan moon goddess, fertility and gestation are combined. Xcaret, Federal highway 307, kilometer 282, Playa del Carmen. Facebook/ Travesía Sagrada Maya 2017

CINE CLUB (ADULTS) Thursday, May 25, from

8:00p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Outdoor movie night presenting “Beats of Southern Wild”. Federal Highway Chetumal-Puerto Juarez km. 298, 984 873 4900.

Facebook/El Pueblito at Mayakoba

FARMERS MARKET, Sunday, May 28 from 11:00 a.m.

to 3:00 p.m. A wide variety of gourmet products and handcraft from the community plus activities for kids. Free entry to the public. Federal Highway Chetumal-Puerto Juarez km. 298, 984 873 4900.

Facebook/El Pueblito at Mayakoba FUSION ROOTS, Wednesday, May 31 from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Live music concert with a mix of Flamenco, Mexican music and Rumba. Federal Highway Chetumal-Puerto Juarez km. 298, 984 873 4900. Facebook/El Pueblito at Mayakoba FARMERS MARKET, Sunday, June 4 from 11:00 a.m.

to 3:00 p.m. A wide variety of gourmet products and handcraft from the community plus activities for kids. Free entry to the public. Federal Highway Chetumal-Puerto Juarez km. 298, 984 873 4900. Facebook/El Pueblito at Mayakoba

Cooking School TOSTADAS & MIXOLOGY WITH TEQUILA PATRON,

Wednesday, May 17 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. $38usd. Federal highway Chetumal-Puerto Juarez km. 298, 984 873 4900. Facebook/El Pueblito at Mayakoba FLAVORS & SCENTS OF MEXICAN CHILES , Thursday, May 18 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. With Chef Karla Enciso. $35usd. Federal highway Chetumal-Puerto Juarez km. 298, 984 873 4900. Facebook/El Pueblito at Mayakoba MEXICAN TORTAS, Tuesday, May 23 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. $38usd. Federal highway Chetumal-Puerto Juarez km. 298, 984 873 4900. Facebook/El Pueblito at Mayakoba CACAO & MOLE SAMPLING & TASTING OF CHOCOLATE, Wednesday, May 24 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00

p.m. $38usd. Federal highway Chetumal-Puerto Juarez km. 298, 984 873 4900. Facebook/El Pueblito at Mayakoba

COOKING WITH JACKFRUIT, Saturday, May 26 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. $38usd. Federal highway Chetumal-Puerto Juarez km. 298, 984 873 4900.

Facebook/El Pueblito at Mayakoba GASTRONOMIC MAYAN TOUR, Tuesday, May 30 from

9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. $100usd. Federal highway Chetumal-Puerto Juarez km. 298, 984 873 4900.

Facebook/El Pueblito at Mayakoba

CREATING MY ORGONITE: Amplify the Power of

Your Quartzes. Saturday, May 27 from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. An invitation to know the use and benefits of orgonites and to program and intentions your quartz with your own energy. Create open paths, attract abundance, increase your peace of mind, lower stress, attract and strengthen love. $889mxn. Facebook/Creando Mi Orgonita .

THE UNIVERSE IN ME: Subtle Energy 12 + 1 Chakras.

Saturday, June 3, 10, 17 and 24 from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. In each session: Sacred geometry, Zodiacal Alchemy, Meditations, Breathing Techniques, 12 dimensions, and Yoga. Contribution $400mxn if you attend by module. Promotions: $ 1,500mxn total cost for 4 Saturdays. Facebook/ El universo en mi , Energía sutil 12+1 chakras VEGAN MARKET, Saturday, June 3 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Bringing together local projects with alternatives free of materials and ingredients of animal origin. Come to know all the vegan alternatives there are for you and to know how wonderful a life is without hurting animals and raising them. Parque La Ceiba 1st Avenue South and Avenue 60 Diagonal in the Ejido. Facebook/ Mercado Vegano Playa 3 de junio

Cancun May 19 -21. Wayne Krassner, celebrity teacher like

Madonna, Slyvester Stallone, Courtney Love, Lenny Kravitz, Goldie Hawn, among others, world-renowned, comes to share with us a workshop designed to start or deepen your yoga practice, based on the traditional system Of Ashtanga Vinyasa yoga. It will be a three-day workshop, divided into 6 modules. AVIVA Yoga y Movimiento Calle Fuego 19, Manzana 10 Lote 4-01, Cancún. Facebook/Yoga Workshop Wayne Krassner Cancún

MARCUS MILLER in OASIS JAZZ U, Saturday, May 20 from 9:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. (May 21). In the 6th edition of #OasisJazzU Marcus Miller will delight us with his talent. His best known works are as a bassist in conjunction with trumpeter Miles Davis, Luther Vandross and David Sanborn. Grand Oasis Cancun, BLVD Kukulkan Km 16.5, Cancun.

Facebook/Marcus Miller en #OasisJazzU

Puerto Morelos THE VOICE OF MOM: PRENATAL SINGING WORKSHOP, Sunday, May 28 from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

In this workshop you will discover the benefits that

Friendly Nights in Playa A new initiative has been created to keep the local LGBT community united and attract more tourism.

BY GINGER M.

P

laya del Carmen is known for its nightlife, so on April 22 it was refreshing to attend an event and go to a location I had never been to previously. #FreeYourSelf/Friendly Night, from Friendly Riviera Maya at Live Aqua.

The Live Aqua Boutique Hotel in Playa del Carmen was the first site to welcome Moovz (The Global LGBT Social Network), artists, media, locals, national and international tourists. The night’s cocktail formula included a welcome drink, canapés and the brand Ultrafemme offering products and services.

Their project in 2017 is to create meeting points in Playa, Tulum and Cancun under the name “Friendly.” For now, their base is Playa del Carmen, with Friendly Nights every week in different bars and restaurants. Once a month, they will host a bigger Friendly Night event in hotels, on different themes of interest to the community. The goal is also to encourage people to book the hotels, such as Live Aqua Boutique Hotel, Playa del Carmen.

“If we want to attract this important sector worldwide, we must start to create better strategies that lead to a better offer in the destination,” says Julio E. Ramírez Niño, Director of Friendly Riviera Maya.

Photo: Ginger M

“We must take advantage of what we have already built, involving society and service providers. This includes being respectful and responsible, promoting the arts, culture, gastronomy, cinema, theater and the music of our country. That is the goal of this new era,” The objective of the events is to keep the local LGBT community united, while attracting gay-friendly tourism. In addition, it is about being present in an intelligent way.

A commercial and strategic alliance has been created so that the establishments promote their services during the event. They are currently looking for organizations and foundations that are dedicated to care, health, welfare, inclusion, prevention and social responsibility. Tierra de Animales was their first foundation and others will be added as well. A percentage of the cover charge is given to the foundations and fundraisers that will be held in the future.

The first of their weekly events take place on May 31- http://friendly.com.mx/.

Facebook/@FriendlyPlaya Instagram/@FriendlyGayGuide

May 17 - 6 June 2017

The Life and Music of

Fernando Toussaint 1957 – 2017 Enrique Toussaint reminisces about the life and music of his brother, jazz maestro Fernando Toussaint, who recently passed away.

BY TEENA CLIPSTON

O

n February 25th of this year, Playa del Carmen lost one of its most beloved residents, Fernando Toussaint. Jazz musician, composer, and producer were some of the titles he earned. Here in the Riviera Maya, he was known as being the founder and director of the Riviera Maya Jazz Festival, and the drummer of Jazz band Aguamala. Throughout Mexico he was known as someone who helped shape the sound of jazz across the country, which began with his brothers and their band Sacbe. He graduated from Columbia University in Direction and Production for Radio and Television. He participated as a drummer with artists such as Paul Anka, Herb Alpert, Ivan Lins, Clare Fisher, and Alejandro Sanz. He had a discography of over 70 titles.

The news of his death echoed across social media as photos, friendship, and fondness were shared. Musician friends were shocked with the sudden loss of their comrade. Fernando

Sacbe ( left to right ): Brothers Fernando, Eugenio, and Enrique Toussaint) / Photo: Courtesy of the Sacbe Estate

was 59 years of age when he passed.

The tragedy was due to a bursting ulcer that produced internal bleeding.

Fernando came from a musical family. His brothers Eugenio, Enrique, and sister Cecilia joined him in

ENTERTAINMENT

21

his musical pursuit.

His brother Enrique was gracious enough to do an interview with me.

Enrique reminisced about growing up in a family that loved jazz and how it influenced him and his siblings. The four started performing together at a very young age.

As they grew older, his older brother Eugenio had his rock bands.

When he switched to piano and had a trio, “his bass player got sick right before an important concert and I offered my help,” said Enrique. “After a few years, we started playing with a band that played covers at a club in San Angel, and eventually we added Fernando on percussion. We started playing some original tunes, and that band became Sacbe.

“We were playing what is called fusion now, but with a Mexican identity. The jazz scene then was mostly traditional jazz, and we were not liked by the jazz musicians of the time, for blending rock and jazz.”

In 1977 they started their first record label DISCOS YOKO, and their first album, Sacbe, was released that spring.

“We went against the flow during a time when fusion was not happening in Mexico, and we produced music of a certain quality that was proudly Mexican and represented us in a good light. I think that is where our success and longevity lies. People are proud of us.”

Sadly his older brother Eugenio passed away in 2011 due to an antidepressant overdose.

“Fernando and Eugenio were freakishly gifted,” Enrique reminisced. “They were both multi-instrumentalists and amazing creators.

They wrote very complex and beautiful music all their lives. Fernando’s ability to hear arrangements in his

head always amazed me. He never read music, so he had to commit everything to memory. He could play all the parts himself, so he knew how to conduct the band. He was connected to the ether and musical energy in a way that cannot be put into words.”

I asked Enrique about how the idea came about for the Riviera Maya Jazz Festival and its impact on the community.

“It all came about from the same passion for good music and a need to share and expose as many people as possible, who may not otherwise have an opportunity. It also brought income to the community and was so powerful that the world paid attention. I hope whoever takes over, does so with the same vision and integrity that Fernando had,” he answered.

“Fernando,” Enrique continued, “was a passionate human being who lived his life fully in every way. He was a true artist who followed his heart and expressed himself musically with complete sincerity and honesty. He was an incredibly unique drummer with a voice of his own and with impeccable skills. Fernando was intense with everything: his love, generosity, incredible humor and thirst for learning and expression. I am devastated by his passing and will take me a very long time to get used to his absence. My sister and I will continue on the path and will try to honor his memory the best way we can.”

This article has been edited for space, to view the full article visit: www.theplayatimes.com

bit out of the way, but sometimes it’s good to get away from 5th Ave, right?

11:00 a.m. until midnight.

Teena Clipston has spent more than fifteen years immersed in the Canadian music scene, making headlines in Concert Promotion, Event Production, and Artist Management.

She now makes her home in Playa del Carmen and is the owner and operator of PDCMUSIC.

Photo: shutterstock

OUR FAVORITE SPORTS BARS IN PLAYA DEL CARMEN

BY TILLY KYRIAKIDES When you’re relocating or planning a trip, there is a ton of potential issues you need to consider. But for hard-core sports fans, moving abroad or traveling can throw you a curveball that you didn’t expect: where can you go to watch your home team in action?

Thankfully Playa Del Carmen has a

whole bunch of dedicated sports bars that are sure to play the sports event you just can’t miss. Here’s a pick of our three favorite sports bars in Playa.

Boston’s Ice cold beer, huge portions of food and fair prices make Boston’s a favorite with locals and tourists alike.

Although Boston’s market themselves as a pizza place, the pasta and burgers are also a great choice. But forget about the food, let’s get to the important stuff: a large screen and TVs lining the walls, all positioned for a perfect view wherever you’re seated. The address is Avenida Constituyentes on the corner of Avenida 115. It’s a little

Legends Sports Bar & Grill For those who like to get a good spot in front of the big screen, Legends is for you. It tends to have a great atmosphere without getting overcrowded, and they play all of the big sports events. An American style bar, they serve traditional pub grub and have multiple big screens, so you never miss a goal/touchdown. They’re located on Calle 16 between 10th and 15th Ave at Plaza Karma and are open from

Tequila Barrel From the outside Tequila Barrel looks like any other boozy bar on 5th, dance pole included. However, it holds a sports secret that makes it a great place to catch a game. A large, fully air-conditioned back room awaits sports fans with a huge projector screen! There’s even a small gambling counter in the back corner for those who like to take their chances on a wager. Staff attends tables, so you never have to leave your seat and risk missing a highlight.

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ANIMAL WELFARE

May 17 - 6 June 2017

Mexico has taken a giant step towards stopping animal cruelty by finally making dogfighting activities a criminal act / Photo: Wikimedia Commons

Criminalizing Dog Fighting in Mexico

BY NASH

I

t is impossible to believe there are people out there that love to watch two dogs kill each other, but apparently, there are many cowards in this world. Fight training begins at a young age. Puppies are drugged and physically and mentally abused to create an aggressive animal. Win or lose, these dogs´ lives are horrific. The loser of the fight is hung, beaten to death or just left to die from their injuries as they are no longer valuable to the owner.

The winner will suffer untreated injuries and be forced to fight again.

Mexico has taken a giant step towards stopping animal cruelty by finally making dogfighting activities a criminal act. Anyone participating or supporting a dogfight will face grave consequences, including jail time and fines. This comprehensive law ensures that anyone who is contributing to this brutal event can be prosecuted, not only the dog owners, but also anyone caught organizing fights, promoting, breeding and training fight dogs, transporting, owning or renting a property that is involved in any way, or buying or selling a fighting dog. With this legislation even participating as a spectator will be considered a crime. Offend-

ers will face a jail sentence of six months to five years in prison and a fine from 200 and up to 2000 days pay.

Dogfighting is big business, typically linked to organized crime, and the dogs are the only ones that suffer.

Anyone allowing a minor to witness a dogfight will receive a higher penalty. Any public servant involved in dog fighting will receive an increase of two and a half years on their sentence allowing for up to seven and a half years. Last year, the Humane Society International/Mexico and other local animal welfare organizations began a major anti-dogfighting campaign, including petitions, press conferences, media blitzes, and pressure on lawmakers demanding this outcome.

Although underground illegal dog fights will probably continue, we have to be thankful for this step towards justice for abused animals.

Tierra de Animales Sanctuary Tierra de Animales Sanctuary (TDA) has been saving the lives of abused and abandoned animals of all kinds since March 2011.

With approximately 3.5 hectares of land in Cancun, it is a refuge for over 400 rescued animals. This non-profit organization is always in need of food and donations for medical treatments. Tierra de Animales is dedi-

cated to the rescue, rehabilitation, adoption, and the protection of abused and mistreated animals. They work very hard to raise funds and bring awareness through education, at conferences, schools, and companies, to spread the message to respect all species that inhabit the planet.

As well as dogs and cats, this sanctuary

homes all types of animals: bulls, cows, goats, pigs, chickens, turtles, iguanas, rabbits, coatis, opossum, birds, and many other species.

Support Tierra de Animales by participating in Sabados de Apoyo, washing dogs, cleaning the grounds and kennels, donating food, financial donations, or adopting. Follow them on Facebook/Tierra de Animales.